Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG)'s Google plans to release multiple AI-powered smart glasses in 2026, marking the company’s renewed push into augmented reality and wearable technology.
The initiative, first announced in May 2025 with a $150 million investment, involves collaborations with eyewear brands including Warby Parker, Samsung, and Gentle Monster.
The glasses will run on Google’s Android XR platform and integrate the company’s Gemini AI model, enabling hands-free assistance.
Google said the first devices will focus on screen-free interaction using speakers, microphones, and cameras for tasks such as real-time information about surroundings or photo analysis.
A second type will include in-lens displays for navigation, translations, and other overlays, which will operate via a connected smartphone.
The collaboration with Warby Parker is expected to produce lightweight, all-day wearables that support prescription lenses, with a debut slated for 2026.
In an SEC filing, Warby Parker confirmed the partnership but did not provide details on pricing or distribution.
Google has highlighted lessons learned from its 2013 Glass project, focusing on improved AI integration and supply chain management.
The company’s renewed effort comes as Meta Platforms and Apple have already established a presence in the wearable space. Meta has invested in its Quest mixed-reality headsets and Ray-Ban smart glasses, while Apple launched its Vision Pro spatial computing headset earlier this year.
The initiative also follows the launch of the Samsung XR mixed-reality headset, originally called Project Moohan, which debuted in October at $1,800, seen as a competitor to Apple’s $3,500 Vision Pro headset.
Shares of Google’s parent company Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) were little changed on the news, trading hands at $315, while Warby Parker (NYSE:WRBY) shares jumped 4.6% to $22.